So You've Decided to Go Camping on the First Date

If you're anything like me, you love committing to bad ideas because you're convinced they're actually good ideas. I think many beautiful things can come from camping on the first date, for example, a child. Or maybe a relationship? Anything can happen under the stars! Here are some tips for making camping a positive experience for the first date:

1. Don't pee uphill.

I think this is self-explanatory.

2. Bring pots to bang if you see a bear.

You can also cook with them.

3. But try to be friends with the bear first.

Everyone knows bears love playing go fish and meeting the in-laws.

4. Wandering down the "forgotten path" can be fun and romantic.

But also deadly. Bring skittles to drop to prevent you from getting lost--also for a fun, little snack on your walk back to the campsite. (I read about doing this in Hansel and Gretel, but I've never actually tried it. So let me know how it goes.)

5. If you see a house made out of candy, run.

Like I made clear in the previous paragraph, a lot of my wilderness experience is based on mid-century folklore.

6. A fun little ice breaker game I love to play on first dates is called, "Which ex would you still do?"

This will probably go poorly for both of you, but the great thing about going camping is that you're stuck in the wilderness. You have to talk through the weird parts. You can't just walk away! I know I sound like a silly goose, but I think I'm onto something. I read an article in the New York Times about a couple who went on a ten-day cargo boat ride for their third date, and they're super happy together now.

7. Go Hiking?

Long walks make for long conversations. ;)

8. You can do a bit the whole time where you think you're in Jurassic Park. If they're not into it... They're not the one.

9. Say no to snakes and wildfires.

If you see a snake or wildfire, walk in the opposite direction.

10. Bring a guitar.

Even if neither of you knows how to play, it's super important to sing around a campfire to keep the coyotes away. They hate acoustic covers.

I hope you guys enjoy your trip! I can almost guarantee that if you listen to any of these tips above, you're gonna be sailing away on the U.S.S. Love boat in no time!